Interview with Dalia Dupris, Author of Soft Lies & Hard Truths
Conducted by Writers and Authors
Tell us about your book.
Soft Lies & Hard Truths is a contemporary romance novel packed with unexpected plot twists that will make you laugh, cry, and feel deeply for the characters. The story features friends-to-lovers and found family tropes. While it’s the third book in my California Heart Series, you don’t need to have read the first two books to become invested in the journeys of kindergarten teacher Leah James and Marine Veteran turned bodybuilder Miguel Montoya.
Leah, who’s been heartbroken after her ex-boyfriend dumped her to marry her ex-best friend, is struggling with mean-spirited taunts and embarrassing social media posts after the wedding. When Miguel offers her a road trip back to their hometown of Santa Lorena, she accepts.
Miguel, who has long harbored feelings for Leah, sees this trip as his chance to take their relationship to the next level. But will shocking lies, deceits, and half-truths dampen the fiery passion between them? Or will they overcome their fears and build a brighter future based on honesty and love?
What is the primary benefit that your potential reader will gain from reading this book?
I’m a psychotherapist as well as a writer, so I’m fascinated by the secrets families keep hidden until they’re ultimately revealed. In Soft Lies & Hard Truths, Leah and Miguel both confront complex family dynamics that force them to face uncomfortable truths about their pasts. The novel explores how uncovering these soft lies and hard truths can shake us to our core, yet also guide us toward deeper self-awareness and healing. It’s about the power of connection and the courage to embrace love, even when faced with pain and uncertainty.
If you had to compare this book to any other book out there, which book would it be?
I would compare Soft Lies & Hard Truths to Robyn Carr’s The Newcomer. Both are friends-to-lovers stories set in small towns where the characters’ past relationships pose challenges for their new romance. In my novel, Leah’s rejection by her ex-boyfriend, Raymond, has left her struggling with her self-esteem and unable to move forward. Like Carr’s novel, my book delves into backstories that must be resolved before the characters can fully embrace their new relationship. Both books feature complex, multi-layered characters and settings that help drive the story forward—whether it’s the beaches, orange groves, or vineyards of Southern California in my book.
Hundreds of thousands of books come out every year. Why should someone buy Soft Lies & Hard Truths?
While Soft Lies & Hard Truths has humor and tenderness, it also dives deep into real-life issues such as the damaging effects of social media comments, the definition of family, and the journey to overcome personal insecurities. This novel doesn’t shy away from heartache and pain, but it also shows the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love to heal old wounds.
Who is your target audience?
The target audience for Soft Lies & Hard Truths is readers of contemporary romance and literary fiction, particularly those who appreciate stories of personal growth and emotional healing. Both men and women, from teens to seniors, will relate to Miguel and Leah’s struggles with self-esteem, family relationships, and the desire to be truly seen and loved. Women of all ages, in particular, will appreciate Leah’s journey of discovering her inner strength as the story unfolds.
Did your environment or upbringing play a major role in your writing, and did you use it to your advantage?
Yes, my environment and upbringing played a significant role in shaping this story. Coming from a military family influenced my decision to make Miguel a Marine Veteran. Like Leah, I’ve also discovered secrets and hidden truths within my own family, which inspired the themes of uncovering soft lies and hard truths in the novel.
Tell us your most rewarding experience since publishing your work.
The most rewarding experience is knowing that readers enjoyed the book and are eagerly waiting for my next one. It’s fulfilling to hear that readers found the story compelling and want to discuss what happened in the novel—it’s a reminder of why I write.
How would you describe your writing style?
I’m more of a pantser than a planner. Most of the planning I do is in my head, and it’s not very detailed. I have a general idea of where the story is going, but the characters reveal themselves to me as I write each scene.
Are your characters pure fiction, or did you draw from people you know?
I draw inspiration from bits and pieces of people I know, but I also create characters from scratch depending on what the plot needs. Sometimes a quirky or distinct character I see in a film will inspire me, while other times, I completely make up a character to fit the story.
Are you more of a character artist or a plot-driven writer?
That’s a tough question because I write complex characters, but my plots are also filled with unexpected twists and turns. In Soft Lies & Hard Truths, for example, Leah’s father’s aloofness hides a backstory that’s not something readers would expect. So I’d say I’m a blend of both—driven by character development and a plot that keeps surprising even me.
What do you hope to accomplish with your book other than selling it?
I hope readers can relate to Leah and Miguel, laugh with Leah’s best friend Jenny, and empathize with Leah when she feels humiliated. More importantly, I hope readers explore the nuances in their own families and experience the joy and satisfaction that come from love, connection, and self-discovery.
How can our readers get in touch with you?
Readers are welcome to subscribe to my website at www.daliadupris.com or email me at dalia@daliadupris.com. You can also find me on TikTok @daliadupris8 and Instagram at Dalia’s Books.
Where can our readers purchase your book?
This interview offers readers an in-depth look into Dalia Dupris’ creative process and the emotionally charged themes behind Soft Lies & Hard Truths. Grab your copy today and immerse yourself in Leah and Miguel’s journey of love, lies, and ultimate truth.
